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Document Imaging

Document Imaging is an information technology category for systems capable of replicating documents commonly used in business. Document Imaging Systems can take many forms including microfilm, on demand printers, facsimile machines, copiers, multifunction printers, document scanners, Computer Output Microfilm (COM) and archive writers. In the last 15 years Document Imaging has been used to describe software-based computer systems that capture, store and reprint images.

Document Imaging is part of the set of technologies within the Enterprise Content Management category.

In the early days of content management technologies, the term "Document Imaging" was used interchangeably with "Document Image Management" as the industry tried to separate itself from the micrographic and reprographic technologies. Organizations like National Micrographic Association (NMA) and American Records Manager Association (ARMA) found themselves inventing new ways to describe these new archive and library tools. Formed in 1943, NMA was renamed Association for Information and Image Management (AIIM) in July, 1983.

AIIM provides a neutral source of information for the public and its members (users, suppliers). Its activities includes education, conferences, trade fairs, peer networking, standards and advocacy. Certification for document imaging and enterprise content management (ECM) in general can be obtained from AIIM [1] and Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) called the CDIA+. [2]

Document Scanning

In the late 80's, a new document management technology emerged: Electronic Document Management. This technology was built around the need to manage and secure the escalating volume of electronic documents (spreadsheets, word processing documents) created in organizations. Electronic documents can change constantly and those changes require security authorizations and tracking, which are the core functionality of an EDMS (Electronic Document Management System). EDMS evolved to encompass scanned images of paper documents and fax, which also have a life cycle redacted by users.

In computing, a scanner is a device that optically scans images, printed text, handwriting, or an object, and converts it to a digital image. Common examples found in offices are variations of the desktop (or flatbed) scanner where the document is placed on a glass window for scanning. Hand-held scanners, where the device is moved by hand, have evolved from text scanning "wands" to 3D scanners used for industrial design, reverse engineering, test and measurement, orthotics, gaming and other applications. Mechanically driven scanners that move the document are typically used for large-format documents, where a flatbed design would be impractical.